Natasha’s story

My partner and I just had our first child not long before my diagnosis. Our little one had just turned 6 months old in December 2023 when I was getting debilitating stomach pains which ended in two separate ambulance rides to emergency.

I was sent home both times being told there’s nothing they could find and to continue pain relief and seeing my GP.

I finally ended up at a different hospital in emergency where I was able to get scopes done and they found Stage 1 bowel cancer two weeks before Christmas. Our first Christmas as a new family wasn’t as happy as we’d hoped.

January of 2024, I had a bowel and colon resection. Once I woke up from this procedure I was informed that I in fact had Stage 3B bowel cancer and required chemo. As a new mother this was possibly the worse news I could’ve received and was absolutely devastated.

I completed my rounds of chemo from March-September and was extremely grateful for my family and friends who helped me along the way. During May 2024 I hosted my first fundraiser and was overwhelmed with love and support from those I hold close to my heart.

I was completing treatment at this time and I was able to host thanks to the help I received. We had a lovely morning spent in good company and I look forward to hosting many more. My team at the Cancer Care Centre along with the rest of my oncology and medical team were astonishing and without them I wouldn’t be the woman I am today.

On October 02, 2024 I was given the all clear and officially cancer free! We celebrated Christmas in 2024 and it felt like a relief to know our lives could get back on track and I could start being myself again.

My one piece of advice: Going through this journey wasn’t easy and I struggled to accept help from those who offered. Let them help you. Your loved ones, friends and family wouldn’t offer the help if they didn’t genuinely want to help you so please let them. They want to see you get better and support you during this time.

Even if it’s just letting them make you a cuppa, no matter the task. Small or big they want to do it so let them help you.Edit One piece of advice for others.